Illinois Beach North Unit & State Line Beach Monday 6-15-26

[Al Stokie]

Hello Bird People,

Didn't see much today at Illinois Beach so this will be a short report
with just highlights.

Illinois Beach North Unit (6:20-10 am)

Was trying for a Sedge Wren where Bob E had 2 last week but did not
see or hear any today.
But while looking for the Wren a VIRGINIA RAIL walked across the
grassy pathway right in front of us after calling once. Also 1st 2 &
then one Sandhill Crane flew by making a lot of noise. Had several
Willow Flycatchers & one CHAT was heard & seen at the far north end.
Later I heard a Yellow Billed Cuckoo near Sand Pond but could not see
it. Four or five Dickcissels were near the still singing BELL'S VIREO
by the Hawk Watch pond.

State Line Beach

Not much here except for 200 Ring Billed Gulls, about 20 Herring
Gulls, 4 Caspian Terns, two
Sandhill Cranes & some Barn Swallows.

I had 36 species at my 2 spots plus roadside Crows for a day's total of 37.
Bird-Of-The-Day to the walking Virginia Rail & Runners-Up to the Chat
& the Bell's Vireo.

Al Stokie
Having a slow day overall in Lake County today